NASHVILLE – A review of the Tennessee Housing Development Agency shows that employees receive plenty of perks as they work to meet the needs of Tennessee families.
An investigation by WTVF-TV in Nashville found that the agency spent almost $10,000 to take its employees to Dave & Buster’s where each employee of the agency enjoyed a lunch buffet and got $40 to enjoy video games or bowling. In addition, the agency spent $1,300 in public money to celebrate the director’s birthday and $641 just on a limo on administrative professionals’ day.
THDA spokeswoman Patricia Smith says the perks are warranted as ways of investing in and developing good employees.
“We work together as a team, we play together as a team,” Smith said. “Play is part of growing a good employee base.”
For example, the trip to Dave & Buster’s allowed employees to bond with each other, she said.